The National African Federated Chamber of Commerce & Industries (NAFCOC)’s resolve to revive its mining sector was taken a step further with the establishment of a four-member provincial task team in Mpumalanga earlier in the week.
A strategic planning review session earmarked for two weeks’ time will be preceded by setting up of proper local structures to oversee performance of the sector in their locals and respective regions.
The NAFCOC Mpumalanga Secretary General, Sizwe Dlamini alluded that the Wednesday engagement with the sector identified Nkangala and Thaba Chweu as regions with capacity for Coal, Gold and Chrome mining projects.
“The immediate task of the appointed team therefore is to study market trends, i.e. demand and supply as well as analyse government policies, regulations, taxes, incentives as well as investigate innovations in mining equipment, processes and sustainability,” remarked Dlamini.
He pointed out that safety risks, fluctuating commodity prices, regulatory compliance and community relations were identified as key challenges facing the industry.
Opportunities that the leadership of the sector will have to grapple with at the strategic planning session in order to revive the sector are, emerging mining destinations, exploration and development projects, mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures and partnerships, he added.
They also include infrastructure development related to transportation and energy, service provision, e.g., equipment maintenance and logistics as well as environmental rehabilitation.
“Enhancing the capacity, abilities and effectiveness of the mining sector’s leadership team through training as well as capacity building programmes including networking opportunities will improve the leadership skills and governance of the sector,” he emphasised.
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